Cook-Cook glanced at Maqan, helping him was very much aprreicated as he muttered "Thank you! Thank you!" about five times under his breath. At Maqan's offer of using tray, the goblin answers: "It's okay, Cook-Cook can hold bowls." then motioned with his head towards the elven man dressed for battle. "Him I not trust. Startled Cook-Cook! Killed tribe! No real loss. Scared he is after Cook-Cook. But Cook-Cook no harm anyone. Cook-Cook fled tribe. Fled through dark forest. Tribe could not follow."
When Cook-Cook feels the reassurance of Gryusha's hand on his back he begins to stand more firm, back straight, shoulders held high. With that he quickly goes outside to bring back his bowls to his cart. Stupid elves, think they so hi an' mitey. Cook-Cook is proud goblin. Not as stupid as tribe.
Cook-Cook stands on his toes at the window looking back in. Wondering what might be said he walks back in slowly.
He walks back in the same way as when Gryusha nudged him on. He moves over to Saronis.
"Cook-Cook not pet! Cook-Cook follower of Great God that feeds! No Lamashtu! Cook-Cook came here, no other goblin could! Each different, be human, be goblin, be elf! Elf have eyes, cannot see past nose!!"
Cook-Cook looks more defiant than ever, he knows about Urdrsk and his fellow dwarves don't care for him, but out-of-towners giving him an attitude right from the start.....
Inside though, Cook-Cook's mind races.
Do not flinsj, do not flinsj. Member what Gryusha told you. Firm back, high shoulders. Not show fear now. Not show fear.
Cook-Cook gulps down visibly, a few drops of sweat running down his back, visible for all to see who stands behind him.
"That's a real nice necklace, but Cook-Cook's got as much place here as any of us, including you. Imagine a world where whatever amazing thing you just did isn't really all that interesting in the long run. Have a drink and relax, pal. Enjoy that normal folk life."
"Welcome." Maqan said with a smile, though she did pay attention to what the elven man and now the group was speaking of.
Maqan gave a small laugh and called to the elven woman "Tell my father you're in the Red room, and that Maqan said she'll come speak with him about the other room too. Oh and there is a little strand you hand on the outside of the door for us not to disturb you, please be so kind as to remember that! Else we'll bring the hot water in for your bath far too soon." Maqan warned before she looked to Saronis "Cook-Cook is a member of this community now, he chose to leave his people and he hasn't caused any trouble. So please don't aggressive towards him. He really is a good goblin." Maqan said with a shrug. "Now, I'll put you up in the Gold room sir, as for no red meat at breakfast I can have some hens cooked up. Will that do? For dinner I can get you a skillet of loaded spiced potatoes. It comes with chunks of spiced potatoes, onions, peppers, and cheese. It is the larger meal out of our spiced potatoes and deer stew we have cooking. Since you don't care for red meat I highly recommend it so that you don't go to bed hungry. Once you choose to retire I'll have the water set to heat and it shouldn't be too long after that till we bring it in."
Taking a moment Maqan then leans in close to Saronis, motioning for him to lean the rest of the way so that she doesn't break his personal space without his knowledge.
Finished with that Maqan leaned away.
Gavin looks up at the old woodsman leaning in toward him. "Master Greigore, I'm sure my folks will take the hares from you. I don't have any other meats or sausages on me, but me ma has something else to trade, I can bring it to ye tomorrow morn. Or, I know me pa's paid three copper a hare before, an' I got some coin on me."
Before waiting for a response from the woodsman, Gavin excitedly turns back to the elven warrior holding his medallion. Noting the elf's words about perhaps the most unique townsfolk, Gavin quips up. "Dontcha worry 'bout Cook-Cook. Sure, he's a gobbo, but he's friendly an' he's a part of Sanctuary. Not a bad sort..."
As the elf turns back to the medallion and manipulates it, Gavin's words drift away. When the map starts to glow and the medallion clicks open, revealing the golden stone, Gavin's jaw drops open and his eyes go wide. "BY THE TEN GODS, I KNEW IT WAS A TREASURE! Wow, do you really mean it!? You'll talk to me pa so I can go?! I mean, I found it, right - so I get to go with it?! An' you can hold it, fer now. I mean, yer an elf, you know magic! Wait, does that mean I am your squire!? Oh wow, I am an elven knight's squire!" Gavin, totally lost in his own monologue, begins dancing and jumping in excitement.
Looking upon the dwarf his smile gets even bigger, "Excellent! Can we get permission if you are with us, or should we go see your chief? It will be much better with a dwarf or two in those tunnels. I like dwarves much better than most of my arrogant kin. Is there a particular drink I can produce for you master dwarf?" You know he is not begging but trying to flatter and entice.
"Thàt wìll dèpènd òn thè lòcàtìòn ìn thè clìffs", Urdrsk began. "Thìs èxpèdìtìon òf yòùrs mìght ìntèrfèrè wìth mìnìng pròjècts yèàrs ìn àdvàncè. My gràndfàther, Wòrgrìc, lèàds òur clàn, bùt my fàther, Òbrùrd, rùns àll Clìffsìde mìnìng àctìvìtìès. Ì ìmàgìnè bòth wìll wìsh tò hèàr àll thìs fròm yòu. Ì àm Ùrdrsk Stónéwárd, by thè wày."
When the idea of drinks come up, the dwarf's face lights up slightly."Ì hàvèn't hàd à gòòd dwàrvèn àle ìn sèvèràl sèàsòns."
When the discussion of 'good goblins' come up, Urdrsk rolls his eyes at Saronis.
"Andreas." He says the name simply getting the nuances of the letters correct on his tongue then he continues, "well met, I am Saronis, adventurer, two handed fighter, and slayer of goblins. Yes please have a look, help is gadly taken, Andreas.
Picking up the map, Andreas gives it a good once over looking at the craftsmanship of the artist who would have created this piece.
His eyebrows shoot up when the medallion pops open and the map begins to glow. "I am good at getting around and handy in a pinch if you are willing to have me. I really would like to see where this map and medallion lead us... and more importantly, to what"
Andreas slowly nurses his current ale for the remainder of the evening, not wanting to have his mind clouded.
If able, Andreas continues to study the maps and markers, while doing so. "Saronis, if you don't mind, may I look at the medallion as I continue to examine the map? I will be right here at the bar."
He raises his eyebrow at the goblin raising enough courage to walk up to him and make such a statement. He then offers, "Well if your tribe acted like you, we wouldn't have needed to wipe them out, sorry for your loss. It is good to see some goblins can act decently."
He clams down further at Varrick's words responding with, "I had no intentions for any harm, just making a point."
He smiles at Maqan's accommodations stating, "Yes chicken will do well in the morning. The spiced potatoes sound great." At her mention he leans in closer listening and whispers back.
He let's the halfling focus on his imagination and smiles at the lad for a few seconds letting the innocence wash over him.
"Well met, Ùrdrsk Stónéwárd. I am glad you are here to guide me to your clan and leadership in the morning." he states firmly but with good reassurance.
Gryusha watches as the elf pockets the medallion, eyes still wide from the magic in the map.
Far from pressing the elf's intimidating glare, she does still try to get a read on the adventurer.
"If there's need for a skilled healer, I'm your woman." she states with a firm nod, watching Andreas as he appraises the map, and Urdrsk speaking on the rights to explore.
"Gryusha, at your service." she gives a short curtsey to Andreas and the elf, nodded greetings to the dwarven acquaintance and local bard.
Sense Motive Reveal: Saronis seems to be a rather even keel adventurer. You can tell the map is important to him, and him taking the medallion means a lot to him but still meaning the best, especially since he offered the halfling a split for finding it.
He responds positively towards Andreas, "Yes it would be nice to have a cartographer with us." Though at the mention of the medallion he checks his pocket and then shakes his head, "You may examine the map but he medallion stays with me."
"Excellent, we can never have too many healers plus I think you are the only one so far. Well met Gryusha." Another name that he rolls over his tongue to familiarize himself with it.
He takes his leave of the main room after a few hours and motions to Maqan to lean into him, "about that warm bath..." then he winks and pats his chest pocket. He then checks in with Maqan's father, , "Hello there, I am a bit tipsy... the name is Saronis... I have the gold room, right?"
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Once Gavin clams down, the old man nods to the boy. Hoping to pull him back to reality, "I will take that offer of 3 copper a hare, so 12 copper or a silver and two copper." Once he has the coins he thanks the boy, tussles his hair a bit and sits back into his chair proper, resting, sipping, and soaking up the heat.
Maqan ensured those that hadn't gotten a drink from Saronis generosity did so and put in his order for his food. While that cooked she stopped at Andreas, Urdrsk, Gryusha, Varrick, and even Cook-Cook to see if they needed anything else, happily getting it for each of them. After tending to them she brought Theldore a drink, and a bowl of deer stew offering him a kind smile. "Take your time warming up." Maqan told him before she moved on. When Saronis's food came out she got it to him with her pleasent smile all the while.
When Saronis made his statement and patted his chest she gave him a nod and moved to the door to the kitchen. "Ma, I'll be right back! I need to help a customer to their room." with that she moved to follow Saronis into the inn of the Dreaming Dragon.
While Maqan was tending to Saronis, her ma came out. Kyreen was a shorter woman that her daughter with greying blond hair and blue eyes. While age had tempered her, she had once been a great beauty in her youth. She wasn't as bright and smiley as Maqan but she tended to their partons well.
He then sighs as he pops his neck and looks deeply into her eyes, "I know you get this from all the adventurers but I sense something in you, the fire that burns in me makes the alcohol burn out fast too. Why do I feel we are more alike even though you look human and I elf?" He shakes his head and breaks their staring into each others' eyes. He jumps on the bed and talks up at the ceiling, "Just bring up the water I can heat it myself. I would ask you to join me but you likely get that from everyone in town and all the travelers. You do have a shine to you, Maqan."
The next morning the storm had lifted, a slight breeze moved the smell of wonderful bread throughout the village especially in the inn. Saronis had told everyone to sleep in and get plenty of rest as they would head out about noon to meet the chiefs of the dwarven community. He invited more and more the further drunk he got.
"If you wish to heat the water yourself I guess that is fine, haven't ever had a customer do that before. Maqan said as she walked over to the bed, and Saronis. "I have had a few ask, okay a lot ask, though I don't know if I've ever had one hint and never ask." She teased as she leaned over to look into his eyes. "So, the question is, are you going to ask?"
With a decent chunk of the town accompanying them, Urdrsk escorts the elf knight into the Stoneward Clan warrens atop the Cliffs.
"Dò yòù spèàk Dwárvén, Sàrònìs?" The dwarf miner asked. "Ìt còuld gó à lòng wày tò ìmpréssìng my gránddád ànd fáther. Jùst sàyìng."
As the elf changed his tone regarding Cook-Cook, the little goblin relaxed and the anger and frustration subsided. His shoulders and arms not standing stiff with adrenaline.
Cook-Cook the tugs on Gryusha's sleeve. "They talkin' about caves? One with bats in it? Good cave. Many mushrooms. Many insects. Most of them tasty. Cook-Cook know cave. Winding paths. Hard to nef-i-gate. Cook-Cook used coal to find way."
The goblin scratched his head as though thinking about something.
"Cook-Cook not sure. Not sure if Cook-Cook should go. To help. Cook-Cook not great fighter. Know to use knife."
Cook-Cook taps the kitchen knife he has on him.
When back at his place to sleep at the Cliffside Lookout, Cook-Cook sat upon the edge overlooking the ravine.
He sat down on his knees and started to talk to his God.
Many have wondered who this 'God' of his is exactly, if it is a strange goblin god or one of the established gods he knows under a different name.
Normally this communion lasts slightly less than an hour, but this night it didn't.
Close to the caves lies the unconscious figure of Cook-Cook, the little goblin passed out due to exhaustion.
Next to him lie his cooking tools. A plate covered with a bowl on top of a cookpot above a still slightly simmering fire, keeping the plate warm.
After all their fun, Saronis holds her close looking into her lovely eyes and states, "You have to come with us to find the treasure, and when that is done I will stay around to get to know you more. Also to see how and why our fires burn so brightly together."
In fluent dwarven he responds to Urdrsk, "Aye my friend, I have also learned giant to get an advantage on them. I dont boast it as much but I have slain several giants in my past. Of course not by myself." Saronis let's Urdrsk do the introducing but upon his turn greets them in dwarven: "Greetings chiefs, I am Saronis an adventuring fighter, slayer of goblins and giants. To be blunt and to the point I wish to enter a tunnel system to the South. I believe it may hold treasures and connect to the ruins nearby. The little bit of history collected before I got here is that this area is protected by something and the map points to a lost vault or some sort of treasure. I am asking for permission to investigate said tunnels in search for treasure." He pulls out the map and the medallion to point out the tunnel system and the magical effects they have on each other. "The medallion was found in the ruins by Gavin, a halfling of the village. Coincidence or fate, with this medallion I know treasure is to be found."
He uses the words to his best ability and knowledge and hopes that someone will pick up on the persuasion.
She had quietly slipped into the inn after all the excitement had petered out. She would see if anyone was still up and possibly looking for some company.
If not she would eat a bit of the stew, check in, and take a long hot bath before turning in for the night.
The next morning she would be quiet and much more subdued. Upon talking with the chiefs she would work on her brother's words and do her best in convincing them to let them search, "As my brother was saying we are treasure hunters, any materials or more deposits we locate will be yours, we will mark the map for your benefit and it will be yours after the venture. What do you say to some free exploring that benefits us all?"
The chiefs were impressed with Saronis, an elf speaking dwarven and observing dwarf customs, then his sister and her sweetened words pulled at their core hearts, how could they say no?
With extra rations from the dwarves and Urdrsk as their guide they were quick on their way.
Andreas takes his leave and sleeps well after his long soak in a hot bath. The whole time he is thinking about the exceptional map... and the possibilities of what could be left behind. Treasure... fame... glory...
Morning comes and he finds his way down into the common room of the tavern. Spotting Maqan; "Morning! If breakfast is anything like the deer stew from last night I know I am in for a treat."
Andreas looks around for Saronis, excited to head out on this adventure... Oh my... an actually adventure... He thinks to himself.
Relying on the aid of his quarterstaff, Andreas partly struggles trying to climb these hills. As the elf communicates with the dwarfs, Andreas speaks up; "If it is possible, could we have this conversation in a way that allows more of us to understand and take part in?" Andreas gives a smile as he leans on the quarterstaff.
After Maqan leaned into Saronis as he held her close. "I don't know what I can offer to your group but I would gladly like to see the area, and see you in action." She told him smiling. "Oh, I should warn you, I might not be here when you wake up. I have to get down and ensure breakfast is made and the chickens for you and your sister." Maqan explained. "But you have me to yourself till then." She told smiling.
Maqan was up before dawn as usual, helping her mother cook breakfast for their guests. She had changed from her green and gold dress into a lovely pair of dark blue pants with a red top that was tightened around her body by a ribbon wrapped just her chest. Her hair pulled back in a braid that was draped over her right shoulder. "Good morning Andreas!" Maqan answered as she brought out his breakfast of everything she had spoke of the night before, he could note that she seemed a bit tired though. "I hope you enjoy!" and the meal did smell wonderful.
After bringing out Andreas's meal she brought out a tray littered with two of the same meals, the ones for Ilnarissa and Saronis. Each had a whole hen on it instead of the bacon and sausage, which smelled of fresh herbs and had a lovely color to it. She placed the tray upon their table to set out the pieces of the dish. Eggs, toast, brown sugar oat meal, and a whole hen to each. "I hope you both enjoy!" She smiled kindly, though she kept eye contact with Saronis longer than Ilnarissa.
Before they parted from the Drunken Dragon, Maqan had them take a few small kegs of ale. "These may help us when speaking to Urdrsk's clan. This is the one they often drink." She explained.
While speaking with the clan, Maqan stood close to Saronis listening to what he and his sister said. She had interacted with Urdrsk's clan before of course, being a local tavern and inn keep and all, but this was the first time she'd ever seen the do business and was very curious. Though her eyes did glace over to notice Cook-Cook passed out. Maqan tapped Gryusha on the shoulder and pointed out the passed out goblin.
The elf gladly embraces her. Through their desperate clinging and mutual work his armor is off quickly, though she quickly finds out there is much more than the suit of mail. Once all his armor, weapons, and clothing reach the floor she is easily ready for him. She also learns that Saronis is no ordinary elf. He has scars, burns, and marks from years of fighting. He also has different kinds of tattoos, elvish flourishes of writing, tribal shapes which use the scars to accentuate the tattoos, also some glowing ones with arcane runes. The most obvious mark on him is a large burn over his heart and it glows, or at least something under the scar and skin glows a faint red orange.
He eagerly touches every inch of her skin with hand, lips, and tongue. As he searches for her sensitive spots he keeps being drawn up to her mouth. Loving the way their tongues intermingle. He sighs out in pleasure, "I can't get over your aroma, I have never tasted anything so heavenly. Then your hair is just so... mmm." He takes her hair in one firm grasp and tugs it lightly with secure domination. He sucks lightly at her bottom lip and then kisses down to her neck. One hand finding her soft breast and lightly playing with her pert nipple between two fingers.
His grin is nearly as big as his appetite, he thanks Maqan, "Thank you for the meal and the offer of the hens."
"Again, thank you for your help, the kegs should go far."
"I aim to please." Maqan told him with a wink.
Despite appearing almost overburdened herself, Gryusha offers to help haul the beer to the dwarves. Outside the caves, she prods the sleeping Goblin as she drops an old, small leather tunic, small sling, club, and a pile of stone bullets on the ground nearby.
It's clear the young half orc had done all she could to gather supplies for the venture. She plucks up the steaming bowl of noodles with a grateful nod at the waking goblin and quickly eats sanding up.
On her hip is an old, if not much used, scimitar. Studded leather armor under her robes, which are embroidered with the symbol of Dretha on the back. She sports a pack overfull with a stowed shortbow, cloth for bandages, rope, likely a week of meal rations, arrows, and an assortment of tiny (mostly unhelpful) trinkets & tools.
She looks around the group with eager expectation.
"Brought all I could." she says brightly.
As they parlay with the elders of Urdrsk's clan, Gryusha stands quietly behind those speaking, entirely unfamiliar with the dwarven language.
As anyone motions to her, or looks Gryusha's way, she grins and nods energetically.
She grunts quiet agreement when Andreas suggests conversing in a more widely shared language.
"Are we in search of something particular?" Gryusha asks their elven guides, as the party heads out, then looking to Urdrsk and Gavin.
As he continues to celebrate his self-professed title as the elf's squire, Gavin downs the rest of the mug of mead. It is quite a bit of alcohol for the young lad, and though it initially adds to his excitement, it eventually starts to catch up to him and slow him down. Upon realizing how late it is getting, he turns to Master Greigore and hands him the 12 copper for the four hares waiting outside. Before leaving, he turns to his new employer, "I will report early tomorrow, after my morning duties are complete, ready to serve you dutifully as your squire and charge. My blade is yours!" And with a haphazard bow, Gavin darts out the door.
When Gavin burst through the front door of the house and began rapidly recounting the evening's events, his new role as a knight's squire, and the impending adventure of the next day, and strange expression grew across his father's face. It was a combination of shock, frustration, amusement, and concern... all at the same time. "Well, I don't like ye running off with strangers, an' I doubt this elf made ye his squire, but if he'll let ye go, and ye say that Gryusha and the Stoneward lad are both going? Alright then, ye can go. Might do ye good to get out an' see a bit more. But be careful, or yer ma will have yer head!"
Despite the tickle in the back of his head, Gavin woke up extra early, taking care to pack up all his gear. He tended to the animals, had a quick breakfast, and caught up with the party just as they were departing the tavern. "Sir Saronis, I, Gavin of the house Fickletoe, present myself for your service!" He offers what he imagines to be a salute, though the elf likely only chuckles at it. Falling in line, he pesters his companions with random questions and observances, but as they near the dwarven mine, he grows quiet, realizing just how out of his element he is.
"I aim to please." Maqan told him with a wink.
He shook his head and his smile grew to a grin knowing how true those words were.
Upon Gavin joining the group he smiled at the lad and said, "good to have you, Gavin of house fickletoe. Though your squireship is tentative with this venture, do your best to impress but stay safe." Then he pulled him aside to ask a few questions without embarising him in front of the others,"so your father, or parents, are fine with you going. Do you have a proper weapon or do I need to provide you with one?"
At the meeting with the chiefs he apologizes to Andreas and the others, "So sorry, I thought someone would translate. We told them that we believe that the magical map will lead to treasure and have a connection to the ruins nearby. The map may point us to a lost vault. My sister pointed out that any materials or ore deposits we locate will be the dwarves, we will mark the map for their benefit and it will be theirs after the venture."
With the chiefs in good spirits with the ale and good fortune on their minds for the future they also ask, "Is there any other supplies that you lack?"
With all in attendance the group heads along the cliffs to the spot marked on the map. It's only about an hour until the group gets to the great waterfall. It only falls about 50 feet but it is over 50 feet wide. A collection of many of the streams that collect the mountain's snow melt. Also likely why these tunnels have not been explored much, you have to cross the river first.
AS Gryusha prods Cook-Cook, the goblin seems to roll over and snore. Then coughs and opens a dreary eye. "This dream? Cook-Cook not ready to wake. Cook-Cook....."
The goblin falls asleep again. After another prod of Gryusha, both eyes of Cook-Cook open up. He yawns loudly with his big mouth of teeth opening up as far as possible. "Cook-Cook awake. Cook-Cook awake. God of Cook-Cook gave new rest-c-pea. As reward. Could not help self. Tried to make immediately."
The eyes of the blue-gray goblin veer over to the equipment that Gryusha dropped close to him.
"What this?" Cook-Cook says as he examines the stuff. He holds up the leather tunic and sees it's small-sized.
"This for Cook-Cook?"
Upon hearing Gryusha's confirmation, Cook-Cook smiles broadly and gleefully wrings his rather big head through the relatively small opening in the leather armour. It takes a bit longer than usual for someone, but by managing to put his ears through first, then slightly tilting his head sideways the goblin manages to do so.
Cook-Cook seems thrilled wearing the armour, picking up the rest of the stuff, he tries to stuff or stick it somewehere in or on the armour.
He then wraps his arms around Gryusha's leg.
"Thank you! Thank you! Cook-Cook adventurer now? Go with you? Should eat new rest-c-pea! Should be good!"
"We be careful! Water fast! Can sweep away people that not swim! Like Cook-Cook!
With the chiefs in good spirits with the ale and good fortune on their minds for the future they also ask, "Is there any other supplies that you lack?"
Urdrsk begins to speak in Dwarven, but grunts to himself, and begins again in Common.
"Stàndàrd èxplòràtòry gèàr shòùld bè fìnè, Grándfáthér," bowed Urdrsk to the clan leader. "À clìmbìng kìt mìght bè hèlpfùl. Sòmè bàgs ànd bàckpàcks. Sòme tòrchès fòr thè..òur sùrfàcè dwèllìng còmpànìòns. Còuplè shòvèls. Ànd thè lìkè."Urdrsk takes the lead along with Saronis and Ilnarissa. The dwarf miner does his best to answer any questions that come from the party about the area. Once at the waterfall, Urdrsk examines the situation.
Urdrsk points out the nearly hidden stone arch, taking a moment to marvel at it's seamless construction into the mountain.
The dwarf points behind the waterfall, yelling over the raging waters. "LÒÒK! WÈ MÌGHT BÈ ÀBLÈ TÒ GÈT ÀRÒUND THÈ WÀTÈRFÀLL THÀT WÀY! Ì'LL STÀRT SÈTTÌNG UP THÈ CLÌMBÌNG KÌT ÀT THÈ BÀSÈ!"
At the mention of supplies Andreas thinks to himself I really should have gone after my wagon...
"Ahh, yes! If we are going to be exploring in the mountains there are a few items we might need. Rope, pitons, hammers... We want to be secure, I have seen a climber fall off a cliff. Needless to say he didn't land in water, but he made a splash."
With a nervous chuckle he continues; "Dwarven Lords, what kind of creatures do you come across up here? I have my staff and am decent with it, but knowing what we could come across would be worth while."
Andreas' eyes dart to where the dwarf points out a stone archway; "Keen eyes my dwarven friend. In my travels have found that being able to see the unseen will keep you alive. Many creatures lurk in the shadows along the roads and highways..."
Beginning to think to himself Andreas continues on[b] "...you know, there was a brief time were I picked up a half-orc along the road, Tsadok I believe his name was. A bruit of a fellow. Anyway his ability to see at night was breath taking. We could rest during the heat of the day, and travel when the roads were clear... looking around and realizing that people are just staring he lets out a little chuckle... "Yes, as Urdrsk said, some standard adventuring and climbing gear."
Andreas continues to lean on his staff.
"Urdrsk and Saronis can each have a climbing pack, from the map that should be all you need. Yes take any bags we have plenty and half of our meager torch supply, 10." Urdrsk's father relays offering up the items.
"If we're going to be in there for a while we're going to also need to bring food. I've heard stories of what can happen underground. If we get stuck we're going to need things such as, water, food, and the like. I can run back and gather some things from the Drunken Dragon. Bread, cheese, a few sausages, and other things." Maqan offered.
At the elf's directions, Gavin snaps to attention. "Of course sire, I will do my best to prove my worth to you! I am a skilled hunter and trapper, and I'm capable at tending to animals, including your steed. And yes, I am ready for the dangers ahead. I'm wearing my hunting jack, have my sling and cudgel, and this-!" the young handling abruptly draws an unexpected blade, a straight-set shallow curved reaping hook. Though older and of simple design, it has been meticulously sharpened and polished, and the handle has fresh leather cordage for a grip. The lad slashes with it a couple times, and surprisingly seems to move it with a bit of skill and grace. "Oh, and I've trained with my pa's bow, but, I couldn't take that, he needs it for the business."
Looking down at the rapids at the falls, "Yup, we definitely don't want to try and cross that carelessly lest we want to meet the spirits trapped down under!"
At her command he impaled her deeper and deeper. He could last longer much longer but his empathic link to her now told him she was almost there and he was ready too. He tried one of his pathfinding tricks to push her over the edge. Grabbing her round buttocks firmly in both hands and pushing ever so slightly as he thrusted into her to give her just a bit of lift. His tongue grazing her bottom lip. Lifting and flexing his cock to ride up along her clit, putting pleasurable pressure upon it.
Once she climaxes he slows his vigorous movement. Climaxing himself within her warm vagina leaving behind his seed. It had actually been over several days and he gulped in fresh air as his load filled Maqan several times. He shivered and let the waves of ecstasy wash over him. He would flex just a little to send more waves through the two of them. Smiling at her and holding her he shifted to the side so his mass was not on her yet they were still as one.
His glow from his heart began to grow, it slowly spread from his heart and spread. A warm feeling came with it. In elvish he whispered back, "We are one, my heart, mind, and body accepts you. Oh Maqan, I have been searching for 700 years." he appears very emotional and cries just a little, sniffing his nose to wrangle his emotions back in check, he looks back at the beauty with him and smiles.
"That sounds like an excellent idea Maqan. We can go back for supplies as the rest of you look for a safe way to get across. Urdrsk, you said you see a path? Take your time and see what you can find." Saronis offers and suggests as he mounts back up on his horse and offers a hand to Maqan.
"Gavin it is wonderful you already have the skills to hunt and trap. Perhaps we will have time for me to pick up some tips from you. I survive but it is not my livelihood like yourself." He inspects the weapons visibly nodding his approval and offers his hand to take the reaping hook to inspect it closer. Nodding more approval and returns the blade.
She dismisses Saronis with a wave, with a bit of sarcasm she barks out, "Go, get us the supplies and double it, you never know what is not on the map!"
Looking around she walks up to the dwarf and politely asks, "where is this trail?" Once he shows her she begins to hack at the blocking vegetation and clearing the path unless someone else does so for her.
Taking a backpack and two torches, Andreas turns and talks to the whole group; "Anyone have tindertwigs or flint & steel? If not, at least these torches could make decent clubs."
Tossing the two torches in a backpack, Andreas begins adjusting the straps of the backpack for a secure fit. Looking up, he sees Saronis and Maqan make their way back towards town for supplies. "Well, we won't be seeing them for a while..." looking quickly between the rest of the group "If the googly eyes that she was making at him wasn't enough, my room wasn't that far off from Saronis' room.. Ilnarissa, looks like you're in charge. Down the path we go."
Andreas doesn't take the lead, he is actually quite comfortable bringing up the rear of the group as we proceed.
After Ilnarissa clears the brush, Urdrsk gets to work getting hammering in the climb kit into the adjacent wall.
A miner with familiarity with vertical climbs, Urdrask sucessfully installs the climbing kit.
With his tricks Maqan didn't last long, her back arched slightly as she shuttered from her climax. Yet when she felt Saronis's seed fill her it was like true completion, and she welcomed the amount. Maqan let out a long satisfied sigh as her lover caught his breath.
As the warming glow spread across his body Maqan smiled lovely at him while they held each other close. Gently she cleared his eyes and kissed his cheeks before his lips. "I'm sorry I took so long." Maqan said to him as she placed her forehead against his. "But we're together now, and you won't have to be without me again." Every word she spoke was almost perfect elven.
Maqan took Saronis's hand and pulled herself up onto the horse, sitting behind him. "Does anyone have any requests for what I should get? Else I'm just going to use my best judgement." She told the group. "It shouldn't take too long either way, though we will have to split up the rations when we return so do keep your bags prepared for that!"
Varrick stumbles into the conversation, already a little tipsy. "Oh, hey, I didn't miss you! This sounds like an interesting time, can't pass it up!"
As they ride back to her small village he asks, "Do you have any questions for me? Do you think we have time to sneak up to my room or should we just raid the pantry?"
Returning to the village he asks, "May I leave it in your capable hands to speak with your parents about the food? Do you want to introduce me?"
He leaves the group upon his horse with Maqan behind him.
She praises the dwarf, "Excellent job Urdrsk. Shall we start ferrying the group over? Should we send Gavin back with the horse to stay at the stable, then he can help Saronis with all the food and water?"
"Do you want to meet them now?" Maqan asked as she dismounted the horse. "I mean they'll be asking you so many questions while I get the food. If you're up for that then of course!" She smiled.
Maqan waved back at the group with a smile as they left. [ooc]Yes, you all can still make requests for her to grab something.
Feeling stymied by the sight of Saronis and Maqan, Urdrsk grumbles. "I guess we'll wait for everyone to return. Maybe send to boy back with your brother to help."
"I'm gonna climb over and go about 50 paces. Scout out the path ahead. Give me something to do, at least."
Cook-Cook feels a bit left out as the others converse, only Gryusha and Maqan seemed interested in the little goblin.
He noticed that the elven maiden of last night with the young folk was here as well. He also noticed her gazes at him and Gryusha were not one of recognition or respect. Even for the dwarf she had no good looks even though he was assisting them. He took his plate of his new recipe and walked up to Ilnarissa.
"Hello miss! See you looking frost-rated. Hope not by Cook-Cook. Cook-Cook want to prove himself. Made new rest-c-pea. You want first try? Blessed they are by God. They will help us!"
Cook-Cook looks as innocent and helpful as he can by making puppy-eyes as good as possible for a goblin.
Hoping that Ilnarissa takes a first try, he will then go around to the others to let them taste one.
Andreas leans against his staff as he watches Urdrsk move ahead to scout. Keeping a second set of eyes out for anything that might try to get a drop on him while scouting.
Overhearing the goblin's concern Andreas speaks up; "A new recipe? What is in it, Cook-Cook?"
"Ilnarissa, how can I help with ferrying everyone across?"
Cook-Cook looks to Andreas and thinks to himself.
O him. Buying food, no eating it. Better stay polight. Maybe he eat now.
Cook-Cook smiled at Andreas, holding up the plate for him.
"Mostly mushroom! And herbs! Also some meat! God called it.. Du.. Dom... Dum.... Dumb-Plings!"
Cook-Cook reached for a fork in his apron and presented it to Andreas.
"Other pre-pa-rate-jon than noodles. Filled with mushroom, herbs, meat! Blessed by God it is."
As the dwarf and elf discuss a dutiful task for him, Gavin gets excited. He looks up at the striking elven woman, " You are Sir Saronis' sister, so that makes me your squire too, right? Oh yes, m'lady, most definitely, I can take the horse back to carry the supplies. I am good at tending to and working with animals, though admittedly never something so large as a horse. Anything you wish, m'lady!"
Gavin excitedly takes the horse and works to lead it back to town, though as Cook-Cook offers up his newest creation, Gavin graciously accepts one. [b]"Thank you, Cook-Cook, I bet it's tasty!" And he pops it in his mouth as he turns the horse back down the path from whence they came.
Hustling with the horse to catch up with his lord and Maqan, Gavin calls out to the pair, "Sir Saronis, Sir Saronis! Your sister said it was my duty to accompany you and collect the goods then transport them back on your steed! I will be most helpful! Yup!" he continues as he catches up to them, now an unwitting chaperone sent to interrupt the blissful pair.
As they ride back to her small village he asks, "Do you have any questions for me? Do you think we have time to sneak up to my room or should we just raid the pantry?"
Returning to the village he asks, "May I leave it in your capable hands to speak with your parents about the food? Do you want to introduce me?"
From Maqan
"Do you want to meet them now?" Maqan asked as she dismounted the horse. "I mean they'll be asking you so many questions while I get the food. If you're up for that then of course!" She smiled.
[Ooc]From Saronis
"Especially with such a marvolous spread," he teased back.
"The scar on my chest is a long story. But to cover the important parts, I died and was resurrected with pheonix tears. It was successful but there was complications. I am now part pheonix." he tells her over his shoulder.
"I would love to meet them, though I am a bit afraid of their reactions." he replies honestly.
"Frost Rated? She says in response in surprise, trying to figure out what he meant, at first she was against the thought of eating the soup but those puppy dog eyes and his words snagged at her heart strings just enough she took the bowl and slowly ate it.
She shrugs in response to Andreas.
She looks at Gavin as he starts getting excited and she quickly points out, "Nooo, if you want to play knight and squire with da... him, go ahead. Do not involve me."
Maqan lifted her head from Saronis's shoulder as she heard Gavin. "Saronis, your sister sent Gavin." She repeated as it was likely he didn't hear. "Hello Gavin!" Maqan said with a smile and a wave.